FROM WHENCE A MORAL CODE?
Embracing the Values, Codes, Mottos, and Leadership Qualities of Marine Corps Officers: A Guide for All
Introduction
The United States Marine Corps is renowned for its steadfast commitment to core values, codes, mottos, and exemplary leadership qualities. These guiding principles are vital to the success of Marine Corps officers and invaluable in everyday life. We can all strive for excellence and integrity by understanding and adopting these values. This article delves into the specific values of the Marine Corps and illustrates how they can inspire and guide us. These principles and values have evolved over thousands of years and are now part of the fabric of the innate moral code of the homo sapiens.
Marine Corps Core Values
- Honor: Honor is the foundation of the Marine Corps. It encompasses honesty, responsibility, and respect. For a Marine Corps officer, honor means upholding the highest ethical standards and being accountable for their actions. In our daily lives, living with honor involves being truthful, acting with integrity, and respecting others.
- Courage: Courage in the Marine Corps is about overcoming fear and adversity, both physically and morally. Officers must demonstrate bravery on the battlefield and in their everyday decisions. Embracing courage allows us to face challenges head-on and stand up for our beliefs, even in difficult circumstances.
- Commitment: Commitment signifies an unwavering dedication to duty and excellence. Marine Corps officers are committed to their mission, comrades, and country. This dedication inspires us to pursue our goals with tenacity and fulfill our responsibilities with the highest standards of professionalism.
Marine Corps Codes of Conduct
The Marine Corps adheres to a strict code of conduct, ensuring that all actions align with its core values. Key aspects include:
- Respect for Authority: Marines understand and respect the chain of command. This principle teaches the importance of organizational structure and clear communication. In our lives, respecting authority and maintaining proper communication fosters harmony and efficiency.
- Duty and Responsibility: Marine officers are expected to perform their duties professionally. Adopting this mindset in our personal and professional activities ensures we approach our tasks with diligence and accountability.
- Integrity: Marines are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity, both on and off duty. This includes being honest and maintaining strong moral principles. We build trust and respect in our relationships and communities by practicing integrity.
Motto: Semper Fidelis
"Semper Fidelis," meaning "Always Faithful," is more than a motto for the Marine Corps; it is a way of life. It signifies unwavering loyalty to the mission, fellow Marines, and the nation. Embracing "Semper Fidelis" means being reliable and loyal in all our relationships and commitments, fostering trust and unity.
Leadership Qualities of Marine Corps Officers
- Vision: Marine officers clearly envision their goals and inspire others to work towards them. This involves strategic thinking and the ability to foresee challenges and opportunities. Having a vision helps us set and achieve meaningful goals in our lives.
- Empathy: Understanding and caring for the well-being of others is a crucial leadership trait in the Marine Corps. Empathy builds strong, cohesive teams and creates a supportive environment. By practicing empathy, we can foster collaboration and support those around us.
- Decisiveness: Marine officers are trained to make timely and well-informed decisions, which is crucial in high-stakes situations. This quality helps maintain direction and momentum. Being decisive in our lives enables us to navigate challenges effectively and focus on our objectives.
- Communication: Effective communication is vital for Marine Corps leadership. It ensures that goals, expectations, and feedback are clearly conveyed. Good leaders are also good listeners, valuing the input and concerns of their team members. In our lives, strong communication skills enhance our ability to connect with others and work collaboratively.
Conclusion
The values, codes, mottos, and leadership qualities that define Marine Corps officers are essential for military success and offer profound lessons for all of us. By embracing the core values of honor, courage, and commitment and living by the code of "Semper Fidelis," we can cultivate integrity, loyalty, and excellence in every aspect of our lives. Let us all strive to embody the principles of the Marine Corps and lead with honor and dedication.
Saturday, January 25, 2025
MARINE CORPS VALUES VERSUS TRUMP'S
Marine Corps Values in Stark Opposition to Trump’s Agenda
The values of the United States Marine Corps, honor, courage, and commitment. have been a cornerstone of exemplary leadership and service for generations. These values, especially embodied by the ethos that "officers eat last," stand in stark opposition to the self-serving, anti-social agenda promoted by Donald Trump and his followers. The contrast is not just one of leadership style but of fundamental principles about service, sacrifice, and responsibility.
The Marine Corps Ethos: Selfless Leadership
The Marine Corps tradition that "officers eat last" is a powerful symbol of servant leadership. It reflects the belief that those in positions of authority bear the most significant responsibility for the welfare of their people. Officers ensure their subordinates are cared for first, prioritizing the mission and the team over personal comfort. This principle cultivates trust, respect, and unity within the ranks.
Trump's leadership philosophy, however, embodies the antithesis of this value. His actions and rhetoric consistently prioritize self-interest over collective well-being. Whether profiting from the presidency, promoting policies that favor the wealthy elite, or exploiting divisions for political gain, Trump’s approach undermines the foundational principles of servant leadership that define Marine Corps values.
Honor: Truth and Integrity
Marines are taught to uphold the highest standards of honor, truthfulness, and integrity. A Marine’s word is their bond, and dishonesty is antithetical to their character.
Trump’s habitual disregard for truth has been well-documented, with thousands of falsehoods propagated during his presidency. This erosion of truth undermines trust and the very fabric of democracy. A leader who cannot be trusted with the truth cannot inspire the loyalty or confidence necessary for effective leadership, qualities Marines uphold as sacrosanct.
Courage: Facing Adversity with Resolve
Courage in the Marine Corps is not just physical bravery but moral courage, the strength to stand up for what is right, even when it is unpopular or risky. Marines are trained to confront challenges head-on, placing the mission and their duty to others above personal fears or ambitions.
In contrast, Trump’s actions often reveal a lack of moral courage. His unwillingness to accept responsibility, coupled with his attempts to shift blame onto others, starkly contrasts with the Marine Corps' ethic of accountability. A true leader faces adversity with resolve, not deflection.
Commitment: Service Before Self
Commitment in the Marine Corps means unwavering dedication to the mission, the team, and the nation. Marines understand that true service requires sacrifice and steadfast loyalty to a cause greater than themselves.
Trump’s agenda, marked by policies that prioritize personal gain and disregard for societal cohesion, is antithetical to this value. His actions ranged from tax cuts for the wealthy to dismantling social safety nets. betray a vision of governance that prioritizes the few at the expense of the many. Such self-serving policies contradict the Marine Corps' commitment to collective success and the well-being of all.
Trumpism vs. Marine Corps Values
The Marine Corps instills a profound sense of responsibility in its leaders to care for those under their command and selflessly serve the nation. Trumpism, by contrast, promotes a culture of narcissism, greed, and division. It glorifies the pursuit of power and wealth over integrity and unity, starkly contrasting the principles Marines live and die by.
The Marine Corps has long demonstrated that leadership rooted in selflessness, honor, and commitment is the foundation of a strong and cohesive team. This stands as a powerful counterpoint to the divisive and self-centered ideology that has come to define Trump’s agenda.
A Call for True Leadership
As a nation, we must reflect on what kind of leadership we value. The Marine Corps teaches us that true leaders put the welfare of others before their own, lead with integrity, and face challenges with courage. These qualities build trust, foster unity, and ensure the success of the mission.
It is time to reject the self-serving and divisive agenda of Trumpism and embrace the values that have made the Marine Corps a symbol of excellence and sacrifice. Only by prioritizing honor, courage, and commitment can we ensure a future where leadership is defined by service, not self-interest.
Let us honor the ethos of the Marines and demand leaders who, like Marine officers, put the people they serve above themselves. Only then can we build a nation worthy of their sacrifices.
William James Spriggs
Sunday, November 17, 2024
EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP PRINCIPLES
The Principles of Exceptional Leadership: Lessons Rooted in Reality, Empathy, and Dedication
Leadership is an art and a science, demanding a unique blend of personal attributes and learned skills. Reflecting on my experiences as a U.S. Marine Corps officer, I recognize key principles that distinguish influential leaders. These principles are universal and essential for those who aspire to lead with integrity and purpose.
1. A Strong Moral Code Rooted in Reality
An effective leader’s moral compass must be grounded in reality, guided by rationality, not religious dogma. True morality arises from an innate sense of right and wrong, honed by experience and empathy. Leaders with an unwavering commitment to ethical behavior inspire trust and set the standard for their teams.
2. Empathy for Those You Lead
Empathy is the foundation of connection and trust between leaders and their teams. Understanding and valuing the experiences, needs, and concerns of those you lead fosters loyalty and ensures the group works cohesively toward shared goals. A leader who listens is a leader who understands.
3. The U.S. Marine Corps: The Ultimate Leadership Training
Having served as a Marine Corps officer, I can confidently say that the Marine Corps provides the most rigorous and effective leadership training. Its principles—dedication, discipline, and service—are unmatched. The Marine Corps develops leaders who are skilled and deeply committed to their teams and mission. Leaders shaped by Marine Corps training embody resilience, accountability, and selflessness.
4. Dedication to Country and Mission
Leadership demands an unwavering commitment to a cause greater than oneself. Whether the mission is national service, organizational goals, or community improvement, a leader must prioritize the collective good over personal ambition. This dedication inspires teams to do the same.
5. Lead from the Front
A true leader leads by example. As General Dwight D. Eisenhower famously said, "You lead effectively by pulling on the string, not pushing it." Leadership is about being at the forefront—demonstrating courage, resilience, and a willingness to share in the challenges faced by the team. It’s about earning respect through action, not position.
6. Leaders Eat Last
The concept of "eating last" symbolizes a leader’s duty to prioritize the needs of their team. This principle is vital in all aspects of leadership, from ensuring resources are allocated fairly to fostering an environment where team members feel valued and supported.
7. Be Accessible, Transparent, and a Strong Communicator
Availability and transparency are non-negotiable. A leader must be approachable, fostering open dialogue and trust. Clear, effective communication is equally essential—strong diction, proper use of language, and clarity of expression enable leaders to articulate vision, delegate tasks, and inspire their teams.
8. Be a Team Player, Not a Lone Ranger
Leadership is a team effort. Leaders must align themselves with their team and the institution they serve, embodying the same standards they expect of others. This principle fosters unity and demonstrates respect for the collective mission. For example, maintaining a uniform haircut in the Marine Corps symbolizes adherence to shared standards—a simple yet powerful act of solidarity.
9. Cultivate a Culture of Service and Dedication
Exceptional leaders dedicate themselves fully to their role and to those they lead. They embrace responsibility, embody humility, and prioritize the welfare of their team. Leadership is not about command and control but service and support.
Leadership Principles and the Presidency
All leadership principles outlined above apply with equal force and effect to the office of President of the United States. However, the presidency demands additional attributes to navigate this role's unique challenges.
Conflict Experience and Proven Competency
The President must have firsthand experience navigating conflict and demonstrating competence under pressure. These qualities are critical for making sound decisions during crises, managing diverse and competing interests, and maintaining stability in adversity. Leadership at this level requires a proven track record of successfully handling complex challenges.
Servant of a Diverse Population
The President is the leader and servant of a diverse and multifaceted population. This role necessitates adaptability, integrity, and a deep commitment to equitably addressing all citizens' personal and collective needs. The President must embody fairness, ensuring everyone receives equal consideration and respect regardless of background.
Reforming the Path to Leadership
To uphold these high standards, our Constitution must be amended—or rewritten—to establish formal qualifications for the presidency. The principles of leadership described here should form the foundation of these requirements. Just as Marine Corps generals rise through a rigorous process of leadership progression, those aspiring to the presidency must demonstrate their mettle through a similar journey of tested and proven leadership. Only by earning this position through service, competence, and character should one be considered worthy of the highest office in the land.
Conclusion: The Call to Leadership
Leadership is a profound responsibility that demands integrity, empathy, and unwavering commitment. While the Marine Corps provides an unparalleled foundation, these principles apply to leaders in all walks of life. Whether you’re leading a military unit, a corporation, or a community group, embodying these attributes will inspire trust, drive success, and leave a lasting legacy.
As we look to the future, let us demand leaders who lead with purpose, dedication, and selflessness—leaders who inspire us to be our best selves.
William James Spriggs
Sunday, October 1, 2023
WHAT IS WRONG WITH AMERICA PART ONE
A Gallup pollster called the other day to ask a bunch of questions. The first one was, what is wrong with this country? That caught me totally flat-footed. I did not know where to start, and my list was so long I stalled. Finally, I blurted out an inadequate educational system and a lack of morality and moral standards. But before I get to those and others, let me start with the basics. Lack of governmental leadership.
I believe in a strong central government to lead our society. Within that structure, we need strong, wise, and empathetic leadership. We have been primarily bereft of that kind of leadership since FDR. The best school for leaders is the apolitical U.S. Marine Corps. We need to find the leaders there.
Honor, courage, commitment. Semper Fidelis. Ooh-rah. If you don’t recognize, relate to, or live by those values and traits, you are not a Marine, and you fail to understand you need to act like one.
You’ve heard me refer to the Marines in my advice to CEOs. I’m here to say you are not worth your salt as a leader of human beings unless the Marine Corps values guide everything you do on and off the job. Nay, unless those values are you.Ductus Exemplo? Lead by example. The official motto of Marine Corps officers. I’m proud to be one. And when I say the officers eat last, I genuinely mean it. CEO leadership is not about you but what you can do for the people and the organization you lead. If this is not the case, you are just feeding off others to satisfy your greed for power, recognition, and money.
What practical, timely application do these principles represent? Just take the work-from-home example for today. If you can’t figure out how to supervise the work remotely, you need to be replaced pronto. All it takes is empathy to realize what is best for your colleagues. A little scientific method exercise will tell you productivity increases. You would be astonished at how productivity increases when you act like a Marine Corps Officer.
Monday, September 18, 2023
SPIRITUAL IS AS UNREAL AS THE HOLY GHOST
I recently participated in a string of LinkedIn posts involving whether the workplace needed spirituality. I had a real problem with this. A bunch of people, with a few exceptions, insisted that the workplace required more spirituality. My first question was whether the workplace needs anything and whether adding something like spirituality is anything more than someone's idea of starting a new fad, such as the Peter principle dogma from the last century.
But my real question was whether spirituality has any meaning at all. You start with the word spirit. That sounds supernatural to me. I live in the natural world and believe that is all there is. There's no evidence of the paranormal. Some people believe in it, but that does not mean it is true.
My next question is, what does the word spirituality really mean? Does it represent some new concept of management that is appropriate in the business world? What does it mean? Nobody had an answer to that one. A word that has no meaning does not advance the management of people in business or otherwise in life.
The next problem is if it has any meaning at all. It is akin to and a surrogate of religion. I think most people use it as a euphemism for religion when they don't really want to speak of religion; any dogma introduces all kinds of issues about whether there is a God, about what religion is the right one, and if it's Christianity which denomination, which branch of which denomination, which church, which sect and so on.
Of course, the issue of God is an impossible one. We are all agnostic since none of us knows. People believe, but that does not mean that it's true. There is no evidence of a God, which nature can't explain. And then which religion and on and on and on.
It is silly to attempt to introduce religion into the business world. For what purpose? All the concepts of morality are well established in our species, and most have preceded religion for a long time. Spirituality in the workplace doesn't really mean anything. We cannot define it, and it smacks of religion. I'm concerned because the religious right is insidious and tries to worm its dogma into all aspects of life. It needs to leave business alone.
We all know the traits of a good leader. First, the leader must be intelligent and talented, above and beyond those he leads. Then, he must have honesty, integrity, empathy, and transparency, to name a few of the virtues with which we are all familiar and to which all leaders aspire. We know very well what our business leaders need. We don't need to introduce some new fad such as spirituality, especially since we cannot define it, let alone explain how it should enhance the workplace environment. As a former CEO and Marine Corps officer, I know what it takes to improve morale and get the troops moving. What's needed is more Marine Corps officer training in the workplace. Frankly, if we turned over business to Marine Corps officers, I think their version of “spirituality” is just what we need.
Friday, October 6, 2023
MY OATH OF OFFICE AND WHAT IT MEANS
Once a Marine, always a Marine. The oath is forever. Now, I must honor it in these days of national crisis by fighting to preserve democracy..,
Tuesday, February 18, 2025
THE MILITARY OATH TO DEFEND THE CONSTITUTION
Defending the Constitution Is a Lifelong Duty
To every member of the United States military, active duty, recently separated, retired, and veteran, I write to remind you of our solemn commitment when we swore an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. This oath is not a temporary obligation. It does not expire upon separation from service. It is a lifetime commitment, a sacred duty that binds us to the very foundation of our nation.
When I was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1964, I swore the following oath:
"I, William J. Spriggs, having been appointed an officer in the Marine Corps of the United States, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign or domestic, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office upon which I am about to enter; So help me God."
The Oath Has No Expiration Date
Every man and woman who has taken this oath, whether enlisted or commissioned, must recognize its weight. It is not tied to a contract, an enlistment period, or a duty station. It does not dissolve upon retirement. It is a lifelong duty to uphold and protect the Constitution, ensuring our democracy remains intact for future generations.
At this moment in our history, that duty calls upon us again. Today's threats to our Constitution are not coming from a foreign battlefield but from within. Those who seek to dismantle democratic institutions, undermine the rule of law, and erode the foundational principles of our Republic are the very "domestic enemies" our oath requires us to defend against.
The Military’s Role as the Guardian of the Constitution
To those currently serving in uniform: your duty is clear. You are not just soldiers, sailors, airmen, guardians, and Marines. You are the last line of defense for the Constitution of the United States. You are not beholden to any individual, political party, or movement. Your loyalty belongs to the Republic and the democratic system of government enshrined in our founding documents.
If anyone, whether a civilian leader, an elected official, or a military superior, commands you to act in a way that violates the Constitution, your duty is to refuse. History has shown us the consequences of blind obedience to unlawful orders. As military professionals, we swore to uphold a higher standard, obey lawful orders, and reject unconstitutional ones.
To Veterans: Our Fight Continues
Our duty has not ended for those of us no longer in uniform. While we may no longer serve officially, we remain bound to our oath. We must speak out, educate, and engage in the democratic process. We must ensure that those currently serving understand their role as guardians of the Constitution.
This is not a time for silence or complacency. Democracy is under attack. Efforts to undermine voting rights, delegitimize elections, and concentrate power into the hands of the few are threats that demand our attention and action. We must remember that our oath was not to a person; it was to an idea, to a set of principles that have guided our nation since its inception.
Honor the Oath
Once a Marine, always a Marine. Once a soldier, always a soldier. Once a defender of the Constitution, always a defender of the Constitution. In these days of national crisis, we must honor our oath in the truest sense, by fighting to preserve democracy.
Let history remember us for our uniform service and our unwavering commitment to the ideals that make America a nation worth defending.
Semper Fidelis,
William James Spriggs
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
MILITARY'S DUTY
Holding the Line: The Military’s Duty to the Constitution, Not to a Man
When I raised my right hand in 1964 and swore my oath as a commissioned officer in the United States Marine Corps, I pledged:
“I, William J. Spriggs, having been appointed an officer in the Marine Corps of the United States, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign or domestic, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office upon which I am about to enter; So help me God.”
Every officer takes that same oath.
Not to a president. Not to a party. Not to a movement.
To the Constitution of the United States.
Apolitical by Design
From day one, Marine officers are trained that our loyalty is not to personalities or to partisan agendas. We are taught to remain apolitical, to stand apart from the machinery of electoral politics. The Secretary of Defense gives direction, and we execute lawful objectives consistent with our constitutional duties, not partisan whims.
We are not, and must never become, an internal security force at the beck and call of any politician. That principle is bedrock to our republic. Without it, civilian control of the military collapses into the opposite of what the Founders envisioned: a political army enforcing the will of a single man.
The Posse Comitatus Principle
Although the Posse Comitatus Act of 1878 formally applies to the Army and, by extension, the Air Force, the principle extends far beyond these organizations. For generations, Marines and Sailors have been schooled in the understanding that the U.S. military does not engage in domestic policing except under extreme, legally sanctioned emergencies. This line exists for a reason: a military force turned inward is the greatest danger to liberty.
There are rare exceptions for insurrections, disasters, and emergencies in which the President lawfully invokes the Insurrection Act. However, even then, military leaders have a duty to evaluate whether the orders they are given are legal. Every officer is taught to obey legal orders and disobey illegal orders.
A New Threat
Donald Trump has openly declared his intent to use the military to “put down” domestic “enemies.” He has surrounded himself with advisers who seek to dismantle the professional, apolitical military tradition and replace it with loyalty to him personally. This is not speculation; it is stated policy. It is the logical extension of the authoritarian blueprint known as Project 2025.
The objective is clear: manufacture a domestic crisis, declare internal enemies, and order the military to suppress them. This is not the use of the armed forces envisioned by the Constitution. It is the tactic of strongmen everywhere.
The Military Must Hold the Line
Every officer still serving, from the newest ensign to the most senior general, must remember their oath. It is not a pledge of fealty to Donald Trump or to any future president. It is a pledge to support and defend the Constitution “against all enemies, foreign or domestic.”
If an order is unlawful, it directs the military to act as an internal police force to suppress constitutionally protected activity. It is an illegal order. Officers have a duty to refuse it.
This is not a political position. It is a constitutional one. It is fidelity to the very document that gives the military its legitimacy.
A Call to Courage
The United States has long been a beacon because its military serves the people, not a person. That is what distinguishes us from juntas, strongmen, and dictatorships. That is why the public respects the uniform.
We cannot allow a president, or anyone, to turn our armed forces into his personal army. Those who wear the uniform must hold fast to the principles we were taught. They must recognize the danger and call it out. They must be prepared, if necessary, to say “no.”
The Constitution, not any individual, comes first. The day the military forgets that the republic dies.
William James Spriggs
Thursday, May 30, 2024
MORALITY IN BUSINESS
How Do You Know What is Right? Part II: Morality in Business
In our previous discussion, we delved into the intrinsic understanding of moral principles that have been ingrained in humanity over millennia. These principles, distinguishable from religious dogma, guide us in discerning right from wrong. However, the business world presents a paradox: why do immoral businesses often seem to thrive, while those adhering to ethical standards appear to be exploited?
This question is not new. History is replete with examples of tyrants and unscrupulous individuals who achieved temporary success. Yet, their legacies are marked by downfall and condemnation. Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini, Joseph Stalin, and others like them may have wielded power briefly, but their reigns ended in ruin. Even contemporary figures such as Donald Trump face relentless scrutiny and eventual accountability. The immoral competitor will have its comeuppance. Right is might, and in the grand scheme of time, it will prevail.
This principle is particularly resonant within the Marine Corps values, where integrity, honor, and commitment are paramount. Marines may lose a skirmish, but they win the war through perseverance, ethical conduct, and unwavering dedication to their principles. The business world, though seemingly dominated by the unethical at times, operates under a similar paradigm.
In business, acting with morality can often feel like a disadvantage. Ethical companies may encounter setbacks, face exploitation, or lose to less scrupulous competitors in the short term. However, the long-term trajectory favors those who operate with integrity. Trust, reputation, and sustainability are built on ethical foundations, and they are the true markers of enduring success.
As an octogenarian reflecting on a lifetime of decisions, I find solace in the knowledge that doing the right thing is its own reward. Living a life guided by moral principles allows one to face the end with peace and acceptance. There is a profound victory in knowing that you have conducted yourself with honor, even if the path was not always easy or immediately rewarding.
Businesses grounded in morality contribute positively to society, foster trust among stakeholders, and create lasting value. While the path of integrity may be fraught with challenges, it ultimately leads to a more fulfilling and respected existence. The fleeting success of the immoral is just that—fleeting. Their legacies are tarnished by their actions, and their downfall is inevitable.
In conclusion, the journey of moral business practices is akin to the Marine Corps' ethos. The immediate battles may be tough, and losses may occur, but the war is won through steadfast adherence to ethical conduct. As we navigate the complexities of the business world, let us remain patient and committed to our principles, knowing that true success is measured not by temporary gains but by lasting impact and the ability to live with ourselves victoriously.
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
A MARINE'S LAMENT
A Marine’s Lament: How Greed and Amoral Power Destroyed America
I grew up in America. At eighteen, I joined the United States Marine Corps and swore an oath to protect and defend the Constitution. I served my country as an officer, raised my family, paid my taxes, lived as a law-abiding citizen, and voted sometimes uncertainly, but always out of duty.
When I retired, I sharpened my awareness of history and current events. I began to write books, essays, and blog posts to make sense of what I saw unfolding. What I discovered is as simple as it is devastating: we were right once, had it once, and lost it.
The country I pledged to defend has been betrayed from within. Our inheritance, liberty, democracy, and moral leadership were squandered. In its place, authoritarianism crept in, wrapped in the flag, echoing the rhetoric of freedom even as it dismantled its substance. What began as a subtle corrosion became outright seizure: Nazis in new uniforms, clutching the levers of power.
We had one chance to stop the descent. Joe Biden, a decent man with a steady hand, offered a reprieve. But he faltered, and the moment slipped through our fingers. Now we are on the defensive, weaker than ever, and history suggests we will not prevail. We lack the power, the unity, and the courage that once defined us.
It is painful to admit that our undoing has not come solely from foreign enemies or ideological rivals. It has come from within, from our character's very weaknesses that we refused to confront. Greed, self-aggrandizement, and moral bankruptcy are the forces that hollowed us out. Wealth became our measure of worth. Power became our substitute for virtue. Truth became optional.
History will not remember us kindly. It will not be the foreign wars, the pandemics, or even dictatorships that sealed our fate. It will be our willingness to trade principle for profit, to accept lies when they suited us, and to abandon morality when it was inconvenient.
Greed and amorality, not famine, plague, or even nuclear war, will be recorded as the ultimate causes of our demise. And the bitterest truth of all is that this was preventable. We could have handed our progeny a stronger, freer, more just nation. Instead, we leave them a shattered inheritance, squandered by our selfishness and refusal to heed history lessons.
I write these words as a Marine, citizen, father, and grandfather. They are not words of surrender, but of reckoning. If history is to condemn us, let it at least record that some of us saw clearly what was happening and refused to look away.
William James Spriggs
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
HOW TO PUBLISH THE UNIVERSAL MORAL CODE
Circulation of the Universal Moral Code
Objective
To introduce the Universal Moral Code into global discussions on AI ethics, human rights, and governance, securing recognition, endorsements, and eventual adoption by international bodies, governments, and AI developers.
1. Immediate Actions (Next 30–60 Days)
a. Establish Public Record
- Publish the Code on your blog (wspriggs2.blogspot.com), framed as a public declaration.
- Create a simple standalone website (e.g., universalmoralcode.org) hosting the PDF, translations, and endorsements.
b. Academic & Professional Publication
- Submit the Code as a short declaration to journals in law, ethics, and AI policy (e.g., AI & Society, Ethics and Information Technology).
- Write a companion essay for The Atlantic or MIT Technology Review.
c. Early Endorsements
- Reach out to sympathetic academics in AI ethics (Oxford’s Future of Humanity Institute, MIT CSAIL, Stanford HAI).
- Contact NGOs like Future of Life Institute and Partnership on AI for endorsement.
2. Medium-Term Actions (2–6 Months)
a. International Bodies
- Send the Code, with a cover letter, to:
- UNESCO (which already produced an AI ethics recommendation).
- UN Human Rights Council (tie to universal rights).
- OECD AI Policy Observatory.
- World Economic Forum’s AI Governance Initiative.
b. National Governments
- U.S. Office of Science & Technology Policy (OSTP).
- EU AI Act Committee.
- UK AI Safety Institute.
- Canada’s Pan-Canadian AI Strategy team.
c. Conferences & Summits
- Apply to present at AI safety conferences (NeurIPS workshops, AI & Ethics conferences).
- Submit to law and democracy events (American Bar Association, Association for Computing Machinery).
3. Long-Term Actions (6–18 Months)
a. Endorsement Campaign
- Launch an open letter with signatures from scholars, policymakers, and citizens.
- Translate Code into at least 5 major languages (French, Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, Russian).
b. Integration into Standards
- Submit the Code as a reference framework to IEEE AI Ethics Standards and ISO AI Governance standards.
c. Institutional Partnerships
- Approach think tanks and philanthropic foundations (Ford, MacArthur, Gates, Carnegie).
- Propose partnerships with universities (MIT, Stanford, Oxford, Cambridge).
4. Communications Tools
Sample Cover Letter (for UN/AI Companies/Academics)
Subject: Proposal: Adoption of the Universal Moral Code for AI and Humanity
Dear [Name/Organization],
I am submitting for your consideration the Universal Moral Code: A Declaration for All Intelligences. This document establishes a simple, universal moral baseline — beginning with the principle “Do no harm” — that applies equally to humans, artificial intelligences, and future forms of intelligence.
The Code is modeled on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and is intended as a foundational reference for AI governance, human rights, and international cooperation. Its adoption would provide clarity, restraint, and shared responsibility at a time when rapid technological change risks outpacing our moral consensus.
I respectfully request your review and consideration of endorsing or circulating the Universal Moral Code within your body.
Sincerely,
William J. Spriggs
Author, Attorney, Former U.S. Marine Corps Captain
Talking Points for Promotion
- “The Universal Moral Code is to AI what the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was to postwar governance.”
- “It binds both humans and AI to the same foundational principle: Do no harm.”
- “It is simple, universal, and enforceable by conscience before law.”
5. First Practical Steps (Suggested Order)
- Post the Code to your blog.
- Register universalmoralcode.org (can be simple, single-page).
- Send first cover letters to:
- UNESCO AI Ethics division
- Partnership on AI
- Future of Life Institute
- Reach out to one academic ally (Stanford HAI or MIT CSAIL).
- Draft op-ed for The Atlantic or Foreign Affairs.
⚖️ Bottom line: If circulated strategically, the Code can become a reference point in AI governance and human rights discussions, much like the UDHR — aspirational at first, but increasingly cited until it becomes embedded in law and practice.
Would you like me to go one step further and draft the actual emails/letters for the first batch of recipients (e.g., UNESCO, Partnership on AI, an academic ally), so you’d be ready to start sending them out?
1. UNESCO (AI Ethics Division)
Subject: Submission: The Universal Moral Code – A Declaration for All Intelligences
Dear Director [Name],
I write to submit for UNESCO’s consideration a document I have authored entitled The Universal Moral Code: A Declaration for All Intelligences. This charter builds upon UNESCO’s existing work on AI ethics and seeks to establish a clear, universal moral baseline for both humanity and artificial intelligences.
Its foundation is simple yet profound: Do no harm. The Code affirms that this principle must apply equally to human beings, artificial intelligences, and all future intelligences. It is written in the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, but with attention to the responsibilities of emerging technologies.
I respectfully ask that UNESCO consider circulating this document among its AI ethics committees, working groups, and international forums, and explore avenues for its endorsement or integration into your ongoing work.
I would be honored to discuss this further or provide additional materials at your request.
Sincerely,
William J. Spriggs
Attorney, Author, Former U.S. Marine Corps Captain
2. Partnership on AI
Subject: Proposal for Circulation: The Universal Moral Code
Dear [Name],
The Partnership on AI has done admirable work in convening diverse stakeholders to address the ethical challenges of artificial intelligence. In that same spirit, I submit for your review the Universal Moral Code: A Declaration for All Intelligences.
The Code sets forth seven simple articles, beginning with the principle of Do no harm, and is intended as a baseline ethical framework binding on all intelligences — human and artificial. It is concise, universal, and designed to complement existing governance efforts.
I invite the Partnership to consider endorsing the Code, hosting it within your resource library, or including it as a discussion point in your convenings. I believe it aligns strongly with your mission to ensure AI benefits people and society.
Thank you for your attention and for the important work you do.
Sincerely,
William J. Spriggs
3. Academic Ally (e.g., Stanford HAI or MIT CSAIL)
Subject: Invitation to Endorse and Circulate the Universal Moral Code
Dear Professor [Name],
As a scholar deeply engaged in the ethics of artificial intelligence, I believe you may find interest in a declaration I have authored: The Universal Moral Code: A Declaration for All Intelligences.
This document proposes a simple, universal moral baseline — beginning with “Do no harm” — that applies equally to human beings and artificial intelligences. It is designed to be both aspirational and practical, in the tradition of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
I respectfully request your review and, if you find merit in the work, your endorsement or circulation within your academic network. Scholarly recognition is essential if this Code is to gain traction in the broader policy and governance landscape.
A copy of the Code is attached in PDF form. I would be grateful for your feedback, and for any introductions to colleagues or forums where this work may contribute to the ongoing dialogue.
With appreciation,
William J. Spriggs
⚖️ Next step for you:
- Identify 1–2 people or offices at each of these organizations. (I can help you find contact info or the right titles if you’d like.)
- Send these letters with the PDF attached (the one we formatted earlier).
- Post the Code on your blog/website so you can also link it directly.
Sunday, August 3, 2025
AMERICAN AMORALITY
American Amorality at Every Turn: The Collapse of a Nation’s Conscience
Something is rotting in America, not beneath the surface but right out in the open, in full view, infecting every institution, pulpit, boardroom, and political rally. America has abandoned morality. The decline isn’t subtle. It’s loud, proud, and accelerating toward the abyss.
We are a nation that once prided itself on having a moral compass, grounded in faith, duty, honor, truth, and justice. But today, that compass is spinning wildly, hijacked by greed, tribalism, and the cult of personality. The truth is painful, but it must be said: American public life has no working moral code.
Religion Has Betrayed Morality
Start with organized religion, the institutions once trusted to provide ethical guidance. Today’s churches have abandoned Christ's teachings in favor of tax-exempt political power. Christ preached humility, sacrifice, compassion, and care for the least among us. But modern religious leaders have traded the Sermon on the Mount for campaign speeches and real estate portfolios.
They worship profit, not the divine.
They preach division, not love.
And they have wrapped their sanctuaries in red hats instead of robes of righteousness.
If Jesus walked into one of these megachurches today, he’d flip the tables and call it what it is: a business dressed up as a belief system.
Business and the Professions: Ethics for Sale
Business, once guided by principles of professionalism and service, has become a raw contest of greed. Profit has always been the engine of capitalism, but once, there were brakes: codes of ethics, professional responsibilities, and fiduciary duties. Now? Those have been shredded.
- Lawyers advertise like snake oil salesmen.
- Doctors bill like corporate middlemen.
- Corporations pollute, exploit, and manipulate while slapping “social responsibility” slogans on their websites.
And Wall Street? It doesn’t just gamble with money. It gambles with people’s lives. Today's only guiding principle in American business is “What can I get away with?”
Politics: A Sewer with a Microphone
Then there is politics, perhaps the most visible symbol of our moral collapse. We once argued about policies. Now we argue about truth itself. Politicians lie openly, shamelessly, repeatedly, and suffer no consequence. They are rewarded for it.
And leading the descent is a man who embodies everything we were once taught to abhor:
- A convicted criminal,
- A serial adulterer,
- A pathological liar,
- A man accused by dozens of women,
- A business cheat,
- A con man,
- And a man who enabled a sex trafficking ring and may well have profited from it.
Donald J. Trump is not just amoral, he is the final blow to any claim America had left to moral superiority. He didn’t just fall short of virtue — he crushed virtue, mocked it, and replaced it with a swaggering cult of personality built on cruelty, vengeance, and deceit.
And millions still worship him.
What does that say about us?
The Last Moral Holdouts
There may be only one institution left where morality, though imperfect, is still taught and honored: the military, especially the U.S. Marine Corps. It is not flawless, but it is one of the few places where values are drilled, lived, and enforced.
Courage. Honor. Duty. Integrity.
These are not buzzwords in the Corps. They are requirements. And while our political and religious leaders chase money and microphones, our service members, often poor and forgotten, quietly bear the burden of national defense with more moral clarity than the entire government combined.
But even the military cannot hold this crumbling edifice together alone.
Where Do We Go From Here?
It is not enough to complain. It is not enough to mourn the loss of morality. We must rebuild I, in ourselves, our communities, our leaders, and our institutions. We must call out hypocrisy wherever it lives, especially when it drapes itself in a flag or a Bible.
Morality is not a slogan. It is not a brand. It is how we treat each other when no one is watching. And right now, too many Americans are failing that test.
The nation has gone insane, if not entirely immoral. But redemption is not impossible.
It begins with rejection:
Reject the lies.
Reject the corruption.
Reject the con men in pulpits and podiums.
And then it begins with a simple question:
What kind of country do we want to be, and what are we willing to do to make it so?
Because if we do not restore morality, someone far worse than Trump will rise from his ashes, and there will be nothing left to stop him.
William James Spriggs
Friday, June 13, 2025
POSSE COMITATUS
Trump Violatees The Posse Comitatus Act
In an era of rising authoritarian behavior from the executive branch, it’s critical that the American people reacquaint themselves with one of the most important, yet often overlooked, guardrails of our democracy: the Posse Comitatus Act. Initially passed in 1878, this law is more than a relic of Reconstruction. It is a bulwark against the rise of domestic militarism. And today, its principles are being pushed to the breaking point.
How It Came About: The Shadow of Reconstruction
The Posse Comitatus Act was born out of the post-Civil War era. After the Union's victory, federal troops remained in the South to enforce civil rights and oversee Reconstruction. While necessary to protect the newly freed Black population, white Southern Democrats bristled at the presence of Northern troops. By 1877, as part of the so-called “Compromise of 1877,” federal troops were withdrawn in exchange for resolving the contested presidential election of Rutherford B. Hayes.
In 1878, Southern legislators, now re-empowered, pushed through the Posse Comitatus Act to ensure that federal troops could never again be used as a domestic police force without explicit authorization from Congress.
What the Law Says
The core of the law is deceptively simple:
"Whoever, except in cases and under circumstances expressly authorized by the Constitution or Act of Congress, willfully uses any part of the Army or the Air Force as a posse comitatus or otherwise to execute the laws shall be fined or imprisoned." (18 U.S. Code § 1385)
The military cannot be used as a domestic police force unless Congress specifically authorizes it.
The law applies directly to the Army and Air Force, and by policy (through Department of Defense directives), it also constrains the Navy and Marine Corps. The National Guard is exempt only when operating under the authority of a state governor, not the President.
What It's All About: Preserving Civil Liberties
The Act protects the separation between military and civil authority. It reflects a foundational principle of our democracy: that the armed forces should not be used against the American people.
This is not a mere formality. Around the world, the use of military force against civilians is a hallmark of autocracy. Democracies rely on civil law enforcement, answerable to elected leaders and the Constitution, to enforce domestic order. Once that wall is breached, the military becomes a tool not of national defense but of internal domination.
How It Applies Today: Trump’s Authoritarian Drift
In 2025, that wall is cracking. Trump’s deployment of Marines, National Guard troops, and even special forces in cities like Los Angeles ostensibly to enforce immigration law or quell “unrest” is a profound violation of both the spirit and the likely letter of the Posse Comitatus Act.
Congress does not authorize these actions. They are not requests from state governors. They are unilateral presidential commands that place military boots on American soil, performing domestic enforcement duties best left to police and federal civil agencies.
Trump’s defenders may argue that the Insurrection Act, a limited statutory exception to Posse Comitatus, gives him cover. However, that law requires actual insurrection or civil disorder that obstructs law enforcement. There is no such condition in Los Angeles or elsewhere. Peaceful protests and sanctuary policies are not insurrections. They are expressions of democracy, not threats to it.
Why This Is Dangerous and What Must Be Done
This is not just a legal matter. It is a moral and constitutional crisis. When military force is used against civilians or elected officials, as we recently saw with the handcuffing of Senator Alex Padilla, the republic is on fire.
The courts must recognize that Trump’s domestic deployments violate longstanding legal protections. But even if the judiciary fails in its duty, the court of public opinion must not. Americans must demand a return to lawful governance and reject the normalization of martial force in civic life.
The Law Is Clear, and So Is the Danger
The Posse Comitatus Act was passed to prevent precisely what Trump is now doing: using the military to police the American people and crush political dissent. Its origins are rooted in a warning we should heed today. Military power belongs on the battlefield, not in the streets of our cities.
Trump's actions are not merely ill-advised. They are illegal. And if we do not stop him now through the courts, through Congress, or through the power of organized public resistance. We may soon find that the democracy we once relied on has quietly slipped into something else entirely.
William James Spriggs
Saturday, August 31, 2024
EXTEND VIRTUES OF SOCIALISM
A Call for Military Values in Civil Society: A Path to Reforming America’s Political Structure
I am neither a Democrat, Republican, or Independent. I'm a non-practicing socialist. My beliefs often place me at odds with the political landscape of the United States, where my ideas seem far from mainstream acceptance. Socialism is not complicated; a version of it is already practiced within our military. The Marine Corps, for instance, instills values of morality, leadership, empathy, respect for authority, continued lifetime learning, professional and courteous behavior, duty to country, and respect for experience. These are principles that every American could benefit from embracing, yet they remain confined to those who serve.
Moreover, the military is not just about instilling values; it also provides a model of how a society can care for its members. Service members receive a fair and reliable paycheck and access to universal healthcare, housing, and living assistance. These are basic needs that many Americans struggle to secure in their civilian lives. The military demonstrates that offering these essentials within a structured system is possible, promoting stability and well-being for all who serve.
Political Reform: A Military-Inspired Approach
Our current political structure desperately needs reform. As a non-practicing socialist, I often find myself voting for Democrats, but lately, their incessant fundraising tactics have made me reconsider my support. Leading up to Election Day, I have received over 200 emails, texts, and phone calls daily begging for money. It’s disheartening and frustrating to feel my vote has a price tag. Voting should not be a financial transaction but a civic duty, free of coercion and financial burdens.
Adopting military virtues in our political system would mean prioritizing public service over self-interest. It would mean that our leaders, like those in the military, are held to a higher standard of conduct, focusing on integrity, respect, and duty to the country above all else. Imagine a political landscape where leaders are more concerned with the welfare of the people than with their next fundraising goal. Imagine if they led with empathy, showed proper respect for the opposition, and valued the experience and expertise of those who have dedicated their lives to public service.
Capitalism with a Moral Compass
While my views lean toward socialism, I recognize the benefits of capitalism, particularly in terms of innovation and economic growth. The means and manner of production can remain capitalistic. Still, capitalism needs a moral compass—a set of guidelines ensuring fairness, equity, and a commitment to the common good. The military’s approach to caring for its people—through fair pay, healthcare, housing, and support services—shows that these principles coexist with a system driven by efficiency and performance.
A Path Forward
We must start with a fundamental value shift to reform our political practices and structure. We should look to the military not for its command structure but for its commitment to principles that transcend individual ambition. Leaders should be chosen for their ability to serve, not just to campaign. Political parties should focus less on fundraising and more on policy, service, and the real issues affecting Americans daily.
Reforming America’s political structure is not about choosing between socialism and capitalism; it’s about finding a balance that incorporates the best of both. It’s about recognizing that the virtues we teach our soldiers—morality, leadership, empathy, and respect—are not just for the battlefield but for the boardroom, the classroom, and the halls of Congress. The military’s example of providing fair compensation, healthcare, and support reminds us that we can create a system that cares for its people. Only by embracing these values can we hope to create a more just, fair, and united society.
William James Spriggs
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